A Showcase of Beautiful Web Application Login Pages

This article is a full chapter from the Web Application Collection, which contains 24 additional topics and 2,000+ design samples all focused on web applications.

Login pages serve such a simple role that it can be easy to overlook them. But these simple devices stand between a user and the application they are paying for. Some login forms are confusing and annoying, which is really amazing, considering how simple the function is. In contrast, the ones collected here are clear and functional. I have assembled the samples here into some common layout patterns you find in login forms.

Super Trim

The login pages falling into this collection are based on uber-focused functionality. The form is placed into an otherwise blank page and puts all the attention on this single function. Personally, I love the clarity and simplicity of such a tactic.

Public Site Template

Another common route to go is to place the login form inside of the public facing site’s template. This is done in a variety of ways, but essentially the form is woven into the standard site and the application often feels like an extension of the public site. I can also see the logic in this approach, as it allows users to instantly skip from the site to the app. This makes especially good sense for users that might typically find your site based on the main url and not the url of the app or login page.

Social Pointers

In this case, I would like to look at a small extra that often finds its way into login pages. The sites shown here have social media pointers for the application woven into the login form. I found this rather surprising, actually, as I would never have made the connection without seeing the sites here. Granted, there are only two sites in this category, but it does bring up an interesting idea. Given the focus of the app and that people hitting this page are already members, its a perfect time to direct them to social connections.

Multiple Login Methods

Many applications rely on alternative systems of authentication. Authenticating via Twitter, Facebook, and Google are all rather common. I thought it would be very helpful to demonstrate some of the layout configurations people have used when this is an option.

Pop Up and Slide-In Forms

One nice way to work the login form into the public facing site is to have the form popup or slide into the page. And, again, since users will often hit the public site to find your application, it just makes good sense.

Combined With Registration

Another approach that I was a bit surprised by is login pages that also include the option to register. Personally, I find this a little confusing at times. This is not to say that this is not a totally viable option. Take a look at the samples to see how others have approached it this way.

Login Form Plus a Footer

Yet another strange tactic was to have a simple login form on a clean page with a footer at the bottom. These footers usually contain various housekeeping elements. While not likely to be the most glamorous of options, it might be just what you need. If you are being forced to add some extra elements to the login page, perhaps this small set will provide some fresh ideas for you.

But wait, there’s more!

If you enjoyed this set of inspiration, you will love the full collection it comes from. Explore 24 more topics and 2,000 design samples to inspire your web application design work. Check out the full Web Application Collection for more details.